Joseph J. Darrow Sr. worked for the Molene Plow Factory Company in Poughkeepsie, NY for a short time. He then left to work in the insurance business for what was then Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. and is known today as Metlife. While working there, he would pay people's premiums for them when they didn't have the nickle or dime to pay. He became a licensed Embalmer in 1927 and shortly afterwards opened his own funeral home with the purchase of 39 South Hamilton Street in Poughkeepsie. This was where he and his wife, Pauline, raised 5 sons; Joseph Jr., John, James, Jerome, and Justin while operating the Joseph J. Darrow Sr. Funeral Home Sr. Starting out was very difficult, but with his good natured personality to the families that he served, he persevered with honesty and integrity.

John H. Darrow, Owner

John H. Darrow worked alongside his father beginning as young as 10 years old, learning the pride his father showed in serving families. His younger brothers helped along during these times. He graduated from the American Academy in New York City earning his Funeral Director's License in 1958. The Joseph J. Darrow Sr. Funeral Home continues at its original location of tradition to serve families of all faiths for over 80 years.